How to Stay Comfortable on a Long Flight

Traveling to far-off lands can be fun and exciting, but you have to get there first. Keep these tips in mind on your next long flight to help stay comfortable, healthy and sane. You don’t have to enjoy flying for hours on end, but you can learn how to survive it.

Pre-Flight

Reserve a good seat.When it comes to a long-haul flight, comfort is key. If you can, use your frequent-flyer miles to upgrade to first class, or pick out an aisle seat so you have more room to move.

Minimize your carry-on luggage.Don’t bring so much on the plane that it compromises your leg room. A bag in the overhead and just the essentials at your feet will make things easier.

Board rested.Sleeping on a plane isn’t always a guarantee, so make sure you are well rested before boarding.

Wear comfortable clothing.Make sure what you wear is comfortable and not restricting. Having a light sweater on hand in case the plane is cold, and a pair of socks in case you want to take off your shoes will improve your comfort level during the flight.

Pack a survival kit, including:

 Comfort:

Neck pillow

Compact blanket

Sleep mask

Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones

Hygiene:

Toothbrush/toothpaste/mouthwash

Moist towelettes

Eye drops/nasal spray

Lotion/moisturizers

Deodorant

Lip Balm

Entertainment:

Books/Magazines

Notebook/pen

Music player/Game player/Tablet

Extra batteries/Wireless charger

Other:

Small, healthy snacks

Water

Gum/mints

Airborne/Emergen-C/Eboost

Natural sleep aid

In-Flight

Stay hydrated.Buy a large bottle of water after security, and have the flight attendants refill it throughout the flight. Keep your skin hydrated as well with a good moisturizer or a mineral water spray, and use eye drops and nasal spray if necessary.

Don’t look at the time.This will make the trip feel longer. Find ways of breaking up the trip into chunks by doing different activities.

Post Flight

Once off the plane, do some gentle stretching to work out the cramps and to improve your circulation.

Keep healthy. Continue to stay hydrated after the flight, and be sure to continue taking vitamins to keep your immune system up. Jet lag is never enjoyable, so do your best to get a good amount of sleep once you’ve arrived at your destination, if possible.